Beacon Applications for Content Discovery and Interaction

ABSTRACT

Beacon applications for content discovery and interaction include triggering features in applications, application discovery, embedding beacon information in streaming media, synchronizing the presentation of content on mobile devices and automatic configuration of mobile devices.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/500,028, filed Sep. 29, 2014, the entirecontents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to radio frequency (RF) beacontechnology and services.

BACKGROUND

Bluetooth® low energy (BLE) (also referred to as Bluetooth® Smart) is awireless personal area network (PAN) technology that can be used for avariety of client device applications and is intended to provide reducedpower consumption and cost while maintaining a similar communicationrange as Bluetooth®. Many mobile operating systems for smart phones,tablet computers and wearable devices support Bluetooth® Smart. Thetechnical specifications for BLE are described in Bluetooth® CoreSpecification 4.0, which is a public document made available online byBluetooth® Special Interest Group (SIG).

One potential application provided by BLE technology is proximitysensing. BLE beacons broadcast a Universally Unique Identifier (UUID),which can be detected by a compatible application or operating systemrunning on a client device and used to determine the physical locationof the client device or trigger an action on the client device.

SUMMARY

Beacon applications for content discovery and interaction includetriggering features in applications, application discovery, embeddingbeacon information in streaming media, synchronizing the presentation ofcontent on mobile devices and automatic configuration of mobile devices.

In some implementations, a method comprises: receiving, by a device,streaming media; obtaining, by the device, beacon information embeddedin the streaming media, the beacon information including at least abeacon identifier and a content identifier, the beacon identifieridentifying a radio frequency beacon in the environment;

broadcasting, by the device, the streaming media into the environment;and concurrently with the broadcasting of the streaming media,broadcasting, by the radio frequency beacon, the beacon information intothe environment.

In some implementations, a method comprises: receiving, by a device,beacon information broadcast from a radio frequency beacon into anenvironment, the beacon information obtained from streaming media thatis broadcast into the environment concurrently with the beaconinformation, the beacon information including at least a beaconidentifier identifying the radio frequency beacon and a contentidentifier identifying the streaming media; displaying a text message ona display of the device, where the text message is associated with thereceived beacon information; receiving, by the device, user inputrelated to the text message, the user input requesting delivery ofcontent associated with the received beacon information; sending, by thedevice, a request for the content to a content provider, the requestincluding the beacon identifier and the content identifier; andreceiving, by the device, access to the requested content.

In some implementations, a method comprises: receiving, by a servercomputer configured for delivering content, a request for content from aclient device in communication with the server computer, the requestincluding a beacon identifier and a content identifier, the beaconidentifier identifying a radio frequency beacon in an environment andthe content identifier identifying streaming media broadcast into theenvironment; identifying, by the server computer, a location of thestreaming media broadcast based on the beacon identifier; identifying,by the server computer, the streaming media based on the contentidentifier; aggregating, by the server computer, additional contentbased on the identified location and streaming media; combining, by theserver computer, the requested content and additional content; andproviding, by the server computer, the client device access to thecombined content.

In some implementations, a method comprises: receiving, by a masterdevice, information obtained from content presented on the masterdevice, the information including a synchronization signal associatedwith the presentation of the content on the master device; andbroadcasting, by the master device, the synchronization signal.

In some implementations, a method comprises: receiving, by a slavedevice over a wireless communication link, information obtained fromcontent presented on a master device, the information including asynchronization signal associated with the presentation of the contenton a master display device; and changing, by the slave device, thepresentation of the content on a slave display device based on thesynchronization signal.

In some implementations, a method comprises: receiving, by a mobiledevice operating in an environment, beacon information broadcast from aradio frequency beacon in the environment, the beacon informationincluding a link to configuration data for the mobile device; andretrieving, by the mobile device, the configuration data; andconfiguring the mobile device according to the configuration data.

Other implementations are directed to systems, apparatuses andnon-transitory, computer-readable storage mediums. Particularimplementations disclosed herein provide one or more of the followingadvantages. The beacon applications for content discovery andinteraction disclosed herein allow client devices to discover newcontent associated with an environment or event occurring in theenvironment, and allow the users of the client devices to interact withthe content on the client devices. Content providers can use beaconapplications to target content (e.g., advertising) to the users of theclient devices.

The details of the disclosed implementations are set forth in theaccompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objectsand advantages are apparent from the description, drawings and claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an example centralized beacon management system thatincludes a centralized beacon management service that provides beaconapplications for content discovery and interaction.

FIG. 2 illustrates broadcasting beacon information through broadcastdevices to facilitate content discovery and interaction.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of an example process performed by a broadcastdevice.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an example process performed by a clientdevice.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of an example process performed by a contentprovider server computer.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an example process performed by a masterdevice communicating with slave devices to synchronize the presentationof content on the slave devices.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an example process performed by slavedevices communicating with a master device to synchronize thepresentation of content on the slave devices.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of an example mobile device management processperformed by a client device to configure the client device.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of example client device architecture forimplementing the features and processes described in reference to FIGS.1-8.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of example server computer architecture forimplementing the features and processes described in reference to FIGS.1-8.

The same reference symbol used in various drawings indicates likeelements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Example Centralized Beacon Management System

FIG. 1 illustrates an example centralized beacon management system 100that includes a centralized beacon management service 112. Beaconmanagement service 112 manages beacons for a plurality of enterprises126 a-126 c at various indoor or outdoor locations 102, 114 (hereafterreferred to as “beacon environments”). Generally, a beacon environmentis any indoor or outdoor environment where at least one beacon isdeployed. Beacon environments 102, 114 can include but are not limitedto: retail stores, mass transit stations, museums, exhibitions,tradeshows, festivals, parking lots and structures, sporting andentertainment venues, airports, hospitals, libraries, restaurants, bars,movie theatres, etc. An “enterprise” as defined herein is any entitythat deploys at least one beacon at a geographic location, including butnot limited to: businesses, companies, firms, public/privateorganizations, government agencies/institutions, etc. Enterprises can becontent providers, providing a variety of content such as text (e.g.,advertising), audio (e.g., songs, albums), video, digital photographs,graphics, animations and the like.

In some implementations, beacon management service 112 communicates withenterprises 126 a-126 c through network 110 (e.g., the Internet). Beaconmanagement service 112 can be implemented using one or more servercomputers. At least one server computer can deliver web pages for abeacon management portal that can be accessed by authorized enterprisepersonnel or administrators using a browser running on an administratorcomputer, as described in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/288,308, for “Centralized Beacon Management Service,” filed May 27,2014, which patent application is incorporated by reference herein inits entirety. Beacon management service 112 can access beacon database124, which is configured to store beacon information.

Client device 106 operating in beacon environment 102 communicateswirelessly with beacon management service 112 through access point (AP)108 (e.g., WiFi access point) and network 110. Client device 106includes a wireless transceiver that can detect radio frequency (RF)signals broadcast from beacons 104 a-104 c when client device 106 iswithin communication range of beacons 104 a-104 c. In the example shown,beacon environment 102 is an indoor environment (e.g., a retail chainstore).

Client device 116 operating in beacon environment 114 communicateswirelessly with beacon management service 112 through cell tower 120,gateway 122 and network 110. Client device 116 includes a wirelesstransceiver that can detect RF signals broadcast from beacons 118 a-118c when client device 116 is within communication range of beacons 118a-118 c. In the example shown, beacon environment 114 is an outdoorenvironment (e.g., a musical festival).

Beacons 104, 118 can be BLE beacons that comply with Bluetooth CoreSpecification 4.0 (hereafter referred to as the “BT Specification”). Anydesired number of beacons can be deployed in beacon environments 102,114. For example, beacons can be deployed in a retail store at anentrance, section (e.g., electronics section) and display (e.g., cellphone display).

In some implementations, beacons 104, 118 broadcast advertising packetsthat include headers that can be detected by client devices 106, 116when configured to run in scan mode. When a beacon wants to broadcast,it starts an advertising event, where the same advertising packet istransmitted sequentially on each of three advertising channels asdefined in the BT Specification. There are four different types ofadvertising packets defined by the BT Specification: non-connectableadvertising, discoverable advertising, general advertising and directedadvertising. For beacons broadcasting non-connectable advertisingpackets, the beacon transmits a string of data but does not respond to arequest from a client device to make a secure connection. The string caninclude a resource locator (e.g., a Uniform Resource Locator (URL))directing a browser running on the client device to a secondary onlinesource of information, such as a website accessible by cellular or WiFicommunication links.

An example BLE protocol for proximity sensing is iBeacon® protocoldeveloped by Apple Inc. (Cupertino, Calif.). iBeacon® protocol specifiesdata elements or identifiers that can be programmed by users. iBeacon®allows client devices 106, 116 to scan and detect advertising packetsfrom an iBeacon® as a background process. Once an application isinstalled on the client device, it can remain dormant until anappropriate iBeacon® is discovered. Advertising packets can be filteredand directed to specific applications installed on the client device orused to initiate actions on the client device with or without userintervention.

Beacon database 124 provides a centralized data store for enterprises tostore their proprietary beacon information. Beacon database 124 can be asingle database or a distributed database. Beacon database 124 can be arelational database that includes database tables. Beacon database 124can include a database management system (DBMS) and schema that allowsmultiple enterprises to store and access beacon information for beaconsused in their respective beacon environments.

In some implementations, each enterprise can be assigned one or moredatabase tables that can be accessed through a beacon manager portalprovided by beacon management service 112. As previously described, theenterprise can read and write beacon information to its database tablesusing the portal or a data feed. Beacon information can include anyinformation related to the commissioning and operation of beacons,including but not limited to: proximity ID, major, minor, transmittedsignal strength, packet type, packet payload data, device filter (e.g.,white list), advertising event timing or any other information orcontent.

Beacon Applications For Content Discovery and Interaction

In some implementations, beacons 104, 118 broadcast beacon informationto client devices 106, 116 when client devices 106, 116 are operating inbeacon environments 102, 114. The beacon information can include contentthat is relevant to beacon environments 102, 114 and/or an eventassociated with beacon environments 102, 114. In some implementations,beacons 104, 118 can be used to trigger notifications that activatefeatures of an application that is running on client devices 106, 116.

For example, client device 106 can be operating in a retail store andrunning a shopping application related to the retail store. When abeacon broadcast is received by client device 106, an advertising pagewith coupons and/or other information (e.g., a map) can be presented ona display of client device 106.

In another example application, in response to receipt of a beaconbroadcast a social application running on client device 106 can prompt auser of client device 106 (e.g., using a text notification) to“check-in” with their social network.

In yet another example application, in response to receipt of a beaconbroadcast, a concert application running on client device 106 operatingat a concert venue can display a map of the concert venue.

In some implementations, if an application is not installed on clientdevice 106, the beacon information can include a resource locator orlink (e.g., web address) to a content provider's online store or website where the application can be downloaded from one or more servercomputers to client device 106. The link (e.g., a URL) can includeinformation that directs a browser application running on client device106 to a specific content page related to the beacon environment. Forexample, a user at a concert venue can be directed to an “artist page”of an online music store for an artist performing at the concert venue.

In another example application, a user of client device 106 in a movietheatre can be directed by beacon information (e.g., resource locatorincluded in the beacon information) to a content provider (e.g., ticketbroker website) where the user can use client device 106 to pre-ordertickets for a movie after watching the movie trailer in the theatre. Thebeacon information can also prompt the user of client device 106 (e.g.,with a text notification, vibration) to place client device 106 insilent mode (e.g., “airplane mode”) when the feature presentationbegins.

In yet another example application, a user at a book reading event orbook club meeting can be directed by beacon information to a contentprovider (e.g., book store website) where the user can purchase a copyof a book and other information related to the book or author.

In some implementations, beacon management service 112 can include apush notification service for pushing notifications to client devices106, 116 in response to trigger events. The trigger event can be abeacon discovery or interaction by the client device. For example, whenthe trigger event occurs, the beacon (if operating in bi-directionalcommunication mode) or the client device through a differentcommunication channel (e.g., WiFi, cellular service) can send beaconproximity event data to the push notification service. Upon receipt ofthe beacon proximity event data, the push notification service can senda text message to the client device that includes a link to contentand/or informs the user of the client device that an application relatedto the beacon environment is available. The trigger event could be, forexample, detection of a broadcast signal from a beacon by a clientdevice.

In some implementations, client devices 106, 116 can determine theirestimated range from a given beacon based on a received signal strengthindicator (RSSI), as described in co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/905,552, for “Range Class Estimation for Radio FrequencyDevices,” filed May 30, 2013, which patent application is incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety. The type of notification and/orcontent sent to the client device in response to a trigger event may bedifferent based on the estimated range class (e.g., Immediate, Near,Far) determined by the client device.

Streaming Media With Embedded Beacon Information

FIG. 2 illustrates broadcasting beacon information through broadcastdevices to facilitate content discovery and interaction. In someimplementations, broadcast device 200 includes (or is coupled to) beacon104 (e.g., a BLE beacon) and is configured to broadcast streaming mediaconcurrently with embedded beacon information. The streaming media andembedded beacon information can be received by client device 106 throughnetwork 110 (e.g., the Internet). Broadcast device 200 can be located ina variety of beacon environments, including but not limited to: retailstores, malls, restaurants, mass transit stations, airports, movietheatres, museums, theme parks, sporting events, concerts, or any otherprivate or public venue, forum or location where users may be subjectedto broadcast. Broadcast devices can include but are not limited to:computers, smart phones, tablet computers, media players, stereosystems, television devices and any other hardware device that canbroadcast content into an environment using, for example, a loudspeakersystem and/or screen or display (e.g., computer or television screen).

Embedding beacon information into streaming media allows contentproviders to, for example, localize the content and target advertisingto users. A content provider can select beacon information for broadcastbased on the geographic known location of the beacon, the streamingmedia being broadcast and the type of broadcast device (e.g., radio, TV,digital media player, computer). The beacon information can include abeacon identifier (e.g., UUID) to identify the location of the broadcastand a content ID to identify the specific content being broadcast (e.g.,identify a specific song, movie soundtrack, video). A device ID storedby client device 106 can identify the type of client device receivingthe broadcast (e.g., smart phone, tablet computer, media player,wearable device). With the beacon ID, content ID, device ID and atimestamp, a content provider can better target additional content tothe user.

In the example shown, client device 106 can receive the streaming mediafrom broadcast device 200 (e.g., a loudspeaker) over a first broadcastmedium (e.g., acoustic signal) and receive beacon information through RFbeacon 104 over a second medium (e.g., radio frequency signal). Forexample, a radio broadcast can be played through a loudspeaker (acousticsignal) embedded in, or coupled to, broadcast device 200 (e.g., InternetRadio). In some implementations, the content stream can be received as apacket stream from the Internet and the beacon information can beincluded in a packet header or payload. Once the beacon information isobtained (e.g., decoded) by broadcast device 200, broadcast device 200can broadcast the beacon information through beacon 104 (radio frequencysignal) where it can be received by client device 106, and, concurrentlywith the broadcast of the beacon information, broadcast the streamingmedia into the beacon environment where it can be heard or viewed by theuser of client device 106.

Example Application—Retail Chain Store

In an example retail chain store application, broadcast device 200(e.g., a stereo system) in beacon environment 102 (e.g., a retail store)can broadcast a branded Internet radio station over a loudspeaker systemfor the benefit of its shoppers. Client device 106 in the retail storecan also receive beacon information from beacon 104 embedded in, orcoupled to, broadcast device 200. The beacon information can include abeacon ID that can be used by a backend system (e.g., beacon managementservice 112 or a store computer system) to identify a location of clientdevice 106, such as a particular store in the retail chain, time of dayand a content ID to identify the branded Internet radio station beingplayed (and/or the song being played). A device ID stored in clientdevice 106 can identify the client device type (e.g., a smart phone,tablet computer, wearable device).

In this example use case, the beacon information can include a textmessage that is presented to the user on a screen and/or through audiooutput of client device 106: “Do you want to take this radio stationhome with you?” A link or other suitable mechanism can also be providedwith the text that, when selected by the user of client device 106,provides one or more of activating an application or application featureon client device 106, discovering an application for download on clientdevice 106 or directing client device 106 to a content provider toreceive additional content.

If the user of client device 106 accepts the offer (e.g., by clickingthe “OK” link), the beacon information (beacon ID, content ID,timestamp) and device ID (obtained from memory in client device 106) issent to the content provider through wireless AP 108 (or a cell tower)and network 110.

At the content provider, one or more server computers can use the beaconinformation to select, aggregate and format content to send to clientdevice 106. For example, the beacon ID and timestamp can be used toidentify a broadcast location and event (e.g., a sales event) and thecontent ID can be used to identify a possible demographic of the user.

To further illustrate the use of embedded beacon information in contentstreams, a use scenario in a fictitious women's clothing store called“Jane Doe Fashions” will now be described. In this use scenario, acustomer is shopping at Jane Doe Fashions in Palo Alto, Calif. She hasher mobile phone turned on and she has opted-in to receiving locationservices. She is also running the Jane Doe Fashions shopping applicationthat she downloaded earlier from an online application store. A stereosystem in the store is playing a “Jane Doe Fashions” branded Internetradio station through loudspeakers. The branded Internet radio stationis provided by a radio streaming service (e.g., Apple Inc.'s iRadio®).The branded radio station plays songs that Jane Doe Fashions selected asbeing appropriate for their customer demographic. The radio contentstream includes embedded beacon information, such as a resource locator,beacon ID, content ID and text message. The beacon information isdecoded from the content stream and broadcast from a beacon that isembedded in, or coupled to, the store stereo system.

The customer's smart phone discovers the beacon in the store andreceives the beacon information, which is provided (e.g., by anoperating system of the smart phone) to the shopping application runningon the smart phone. The text message is displayed on the smart phonewith a link for accepting the offer: “Would you like to take this radiostation with you?” If the customer accepts the offer, the shoppingapplication uses the resource locator to send the beacon ID, content IDand a device ID stored on the smart phone to the radio streamingservice. At the streaming service, the beacon ID is used to identify thestore location (Palo Alto, Calif.) and the content ID is used toidentify the branded radio station (Jane Doe Fashions). The device IDidentifies the client device as a smart phone. No personal informationis sent to the radio streaming service. In some implementations, thebeacon information can be encrypted or otherwise made anonymous on thesmart phone prior to sending to the radio streaming service.

Upon receipt of the information from the smart phone, the radiostreaming service aggregates audio advertisements stored in a databasethat are localized to the specific store and targets the demographic ofthe typical store customer. The audio advertisements are added to thebranded radio station to be broadcast between songs. A link to thebranded radio station is then sent to the client device so that the usercan play the radio station on their smart phone after they leave thestore. In some implementations, the targeted advertisements areformatted for the particular device type (e.g., smart phone) identifiedby the device ID. For example, an Internet radio station for a mediaplayer may be formatted differently than an Internet radio station for asmart phone, tablet computer or wearable device, as each device may use,for example, a different audio codec. If the content is visual, then thedevice ID can be used to determine display screen size and resolution.

In some implementations, content providers can embed the beaconinformation in the streaming media. However, in some situations this maynot be possible. An alternate implementation is to have the broadcastdevice (e.g., a radio or computer) capture a signature (e.g., audiofingerprint) of the streaming media and identify the streaming media bymatching the signature to a reference signature in a reference database.After the streaming media is identified by the signature match, thebroadcast device can generate a content ID for the streaming media andbroadcast the content ID with the beacon ID to client devices.

Example Application—Movie Theatre

In this example application, beacons are deployed in a movie theatre tobroadcast beacon information during the screening of a movie trailer orslide show. For movie trailers, beacon information identifying the movietrailer is broadcast by theatre beacons so that it can be received byclient devices in the movie theatre while the movie trailer is playing.A text message and link is presented on the client device to direct theuser of the client device to additional content related to the movietrailer. For example, the additional content could be a link to themovie trailer and/or additional information (e.g., about the movie,cast, director) or a ticket broker where the user can pre-order ticketsfor the movie. In some implementations, just before the featurepresentation begins, the movie theatre beacons can broadcast a textmessage requesting the users to turn off their client devices so as notto disturb the other patrons during the movie.

Slideshows with advertisements are often played in movie theatres. Foreach slide in the slide show, a content ID can be broadcast from thetheatre beacons. A content ID for a slide can be used to drive theclient device to the advertiser's website or other designated resourceassociated with the slide. In some implementations, a list of links forthe entire slide show is sent to the client device, so that the user canbrowse the content at a later time. In some cases, the client device canreceive an electronic coupon for use at the movie concession stand asincentive for requesting the trailers or other offers.

The content discovery and interaction in a movie theatre described aboveis applicable to any event where beacons can be deployed and contentstreams are broadcast, including but not limited to: concert venues,sporting events, museums, trade shows, airport, hotel lobbies, masstransit stations, schools, etc.

Example Processes

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of an example process 300 performed by abroadcast device. Process 300 can be implemented using one of thearchitectures described in reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

In some implementations process 300 can begin by receiving streamingmedia (e.g. audio, video) with embedded beacon information (302). Thebeacon information can be included in a packet header and/or payload.The beacon information can include a content ID, beacon ID and timestampfor identifying the streaming media and the location and time of thebroadcast. Process 300 can continue by decoding the beacon informationfrom the streaming media (304) and broadcasting the beacon informationusing an RF beacon embedded in, or coupled to, the broadcast device(306). The beacon information can be broadcast over a first broadcastmedium (e.g., acoustic signals) concurrently with the broadcasting ofthe streaming media over a second broadcast medium (e.g., RF signals).In some implementations, the broadcast device can be configured toidentify the streaming media (e.g., based on an audio signature) and togenerate a content ID identifying the streaming media. In someimplementations, the broadcast device can be configured over a networkconnection by a centralized beacon management service (e.g., centralizedbeacon management service 112).

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an example process 400 performed by a clientdevice. Process 400 can be implemented using the client architecturedescribed in reference to FIG. 9.

In some implementations, process 400 can begin by receiving beaconinformation from a broadcast device (402). The beacon information caninclude a resource locator, content ID, beacon ID and timestamp.

Process 400 can continue by invoking an application or a feature of anapplication using the beacon information (404). The resource locator(e.g., URL or web address) can be used by a browser or other applicationrunning on the client device to direct the browser to a website oronline store of a content provider to obtain relevant content using thebeacon information (406). If the application is installed on the clientdevice but is not running, receipt of the beacon information can be usedto invoke or launch the application on the client device. If theapplication is not installed on the client device, then the resourcelocator (or a different resource locator) can be used to download theapplication from the website or online store.

Process 400 can continue by receiving content from the content providerthat is related to the beacon environment and presenting or playing(e.g., using a digital media player) the content on the client device.The content can be downloaded automatically (pushed) to the clientdevice or downloaded in response to user input. In the latter case, theuser may have navigated through the content on the website or onlinestore and selected a particular content to download to the clientdevice.

In some implementations, the content includes a link to a social network(e.g., Facebook® “Like” button) that can be used to share the contentwith friends. This social network feature assists content providers infinding additional potential customers as a user's social network islikely to enjoy the same content as the user, and therefore would likelybe receptive to receiving a link to the content.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of an example process 500 performed by a servercomputer of a content provider. Process 500 can be implemented using theserver computer architecture described in reference to FIG. 10.

In some implementations, process 500 can begin by receiving a contentrequest from a client device (502). The content request can includebeacon information and a device ID for identifying the location and timeof a broadcast of streaming media, the streaming media that wasbroadcast and the device type of the client device that received thebeacon information (e.g., smart phone, tablet computer, wearabledevice).

Process 500 can continue by selecting, aggregating and formattingcontent based on the beacon information (504). For example, a beacon IDcan be a UUID, which can be matched against a list of beacon IDs in abeacon database (e.g., beacon database 124) operated by the contentprovider. The beacon database (e.g., a relational database) associatesthe beacon ID with other information, such as the name of an enterpriseproviding the content and a location of the beacon (e.g., a store IDand/or location). For example, a specific beacon can be associated witha particular retail store of a retail chain and/or location in the store(e.g., the cosmetics section). The beacon information can be used todetermine a possible demographic of the user operating the clientdevice. The demographic can be used to select, aggregate and formattargeted content (e.g., advertising) to insert in or add to therequested content. For example, if the content is a branded radiostation, then audio commercials tailored to the user demographic can beinserted between songs in the playlist for the branded radio station. Ifthe content is a video or television program, then an appropriatecommercial tailored to the user demographic can be added to the video ortelevision program.

After the content has been prepared, a link (resource locator) to thecontent can be sent to the client device, which, when selected by theuser or the application, provides access to the aggregated content(506).

Synchronizing Content Presentations

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an example process 600 performed by a masterdevice communicating with slave devices to synchronize the presentationof content on the slave devices. Process 600 can be implemented usingthe client architecture described in reference to FIG. 9.

In some implementations, process 600 displays content on a master devicein communication with slave devices (602). Process 600 continues byobtaining a synchronization signal embedded in the displayed content(604). Process 600 continues by broadcasting the synchronization signalthrough an RF beacon installed in, or coupled to, the master device(606).

For example, the master device can be a computer or tablet computer witha wireless transceiver that is configured by software to behave like abeacon. In one example use scenario, the master device can be running anelectronic book (e-book) reader application. Each time a user of themaster device changes the page in a book, a page indicator signal isbroadcast to slave devices in the vicinity of the master device. Thepage indicator signal indicates the current page that the master deviceis displaying so that book reader applications running on the slavedevices (e.g., computers, tablet computers) can automatically change tothe page in the book indicated by the page indicator.

The synchronization of content presentations can be used in classrooms,book readings and any other use scenario where a single device wants tosynchronize the presentation of content with other devices operating inthe same environment. In some implementations, a page indicator signalis embedded in the electronic book content (e.g., metadata). When thee-book page is rendered by the e-book reader on a display the pageindicator is obtained (e.g., decoded) from the page content andbroadcast by the master device to the slave devices using an RF beacon.In some implementations, the RF beacon can be a wireless transceiver inthe master device that is used for Bluetooth communications.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an example process 700 performed by slavedevices communicating with a master device to synchronize thepresentation of content on the slave devices. Process 700 can beimplemented using the client architecture described in reference to FIG.9.

In some implementations, process 700 can begin by the slave devicereceiving a synchronization signal from the master device (702). Theslave device can be a computer, smart phone or tablet computer with awireless transceiver that is configured by software to be controlled bya master device using broadcast signals. Process 700 can continue bydetermining content to display on the slave display device (704) anddisplaying the content on the slave display device (706).

Referring again to the book reading use scenario, when a user of themaster device changes the page in an e-book, a page indicator signal isbroadcast to slave devices in the vicinity of the master device orbeacon environment. An e-book reader application running on the slavedevices can use the page indicator to automatically display the samepage as displayed on the master device, therefore synchronizing thedisplay of content on the master and slave devices using RF beacons.

Mobile Device Management

In some implementations, centralized beacon management service 112allows an information technology (IT) professional or other enterprisepersonnel to use a web portal for mobile device management acrossbusiness units regardless of geographic locations. Client devices can beconfigured or re-configured based on beacon discovery and interaction.For example, an enterprise may deploy beacons in offices that broadcastbeacon information that directs newly issued client devices (e.g.,mobile phones, tablet computers) to an intranet page where the user canauthenticate and/or configure their client device. In someimplementations, the client devices can be configured differently orcertain device functions or applications can be made inaccessible orrestricted based on the office and the user's authorization status orsecurity clearance. For example, beacon information can providedifferent welcome messages and instructions depending on the office. Theclient device can be directed by a resource locator or link in thebeacon information to a local intranet page for the office, where theclient device can be configured for the office and geographic region(e.g., localized to a specific language in the case of internationalcorporations).

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of an example mobile device management process800 performed by a client device to configure the client device. Process800 can be implemented using the client architecture described inreference to FIG. 9.

Process 800 can begin by receiving information broadcast from a radiofrequency beacon in an environment (e.g., office building), theinformation including a link to configuration data for the device (802).Process 800 can continue by retrieving the configuration data (804) andconfiguring the device according to the configuration data (806).Configuration data can include, for example, the setting of parametersfor the client device operating system and installed applications. Insome implementations, the client device is automatically configuredwithout user intervention.

Example Client Architecture

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of example client device architecture 900 forimplementing the features and processes described in reference to FIGS.1-8. Architecture 900 may be implemented in any mobile device forimplementing the features and processes described in reference to FIGS.1-8, including but not limited to portable computers, smart phones andtablet computers, game consoles, wearable computers and the like.Architecture 900 may include memory interface 902, data processor(s),image processor(s) or central processing unit(s) 904, and peripheralsinterface 906. Memory interface 902, processor(s) 904 or peripheralsinterface 906 may be separate components or may be integrated in one ormore integrated circuits. One or more communication buses or signallines may couple the various components.

Sensors, devices, and subsystems may be coupled to peripherals interface906 to facilitate multiple functionalities. For example, motion sensor910, light sensor 912, and proximity sensor 914 may be coupled toperipherals interface 906 to facilitate orientation, lighting, andproximity functions of the device. For example, in some implementations,light sensor 912 may be utilized to facilitate adjusting the brightnessof touch surface 946. In some implementations, motion sensor 910 (e.g.,an accelerometer, gyros) may be utilized to detect movement andorientation of the device. Accordingly, display objects or media may bepresented according to a detected orientation (e.g., portrait orlandscape). Other sensors may also be connected to peripherals interface906, such as a temperature sensor, a biometric sensor, or other sensingdevice, to facilitate related functionalities.

Location processor 915 (e.g., GPS receiver chip) may be connected toperipherals interface 906 to provide georeferencing. Electronicmagnetometer 916 (e.g., an integrated circuit chip) may also beconnected to peripherals interface 906 to provide data that may be usedto determine the direction of magnetic North. Thus, electronicmagnetometer 916 may be used with an electronic compass application.

Camera subsystem 920 and an optical sensor 922, e.g., a charged coupleddevice (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) opticalsensor, may be utilized to facilitate camera functions, such asrecording photographs and video clips.

Communication functions may be facilitated through one or morecommunication subsystems 924. Communication subsystem(s) 924 may includeone or more wireless communication subsystems. Wireless communicationsubsystems 924 may include radio frequency receivers and transmittersand/or optical (e.g., infrared) receivers and transmitters. Wiredcommunication systems 924 may include a port, e.g., a Universal SerialBus (USB) port or some other wired port connection that may be used toestablish a wired connection to other computing devices, such as othercommunication devices, network access devices, a personal computer, aprinter, a display screen, or other processing devices capable ofreceiving or transmitting data.

The specific design and implementation of the communication subsystem924 may depend on the communication network(s) or medium(s) over whichthe device is intended to operate. For example, a device may includewireless communication subsystems designed to operate using known orstandardized protocols, including but not limited to: global system formobile communications (GSM), GPRS, enhanced data GSM environment (EDGE),IEEE 802.x (e.g., WiFi, WiMax), code division multiple access (CDMA),Near Field Communications (NFC), Bluetooth® (including classicBluetooth® and Bluetooth® low energy (BLE)). Wireless communicationsubsystems 924 may include hosting protocols such that the device may beconfigured as a base station for other wireless devices. As anotherexample, the communication subsystems may allow the device tosynchronize with a host device using one or more protocols, such as, forexample, the TCP/IP protocol, HTTP protocol, UDP protocol, and any otherknown or standardized protocol.

Audio subsystem 926 may be coupled to a speaker 928 and one or moremicrophones 930 to facilitate voice-enabled functions, such as voicerecognition, voice replication, digital recording, and telephonyfunctions.

I/O subsystem 940 may include touch controller 942 and/or other inputcontroller(s) 944. Touch controller 942 may be coupled to a touchsurface 946. Touch surface 946 and touch controller 942 may, forexample, detect contact and movement or break thereof using any of anumber of touch sensitivity technologies, including but not limited tocapacitive, resistive, infrared, and surface acoustic wave technologies,as well as other proximity sensor arrays or other elements fordetermining one or more points of contact with touch surface 946. In oneimplementation, touch surface 946 may display virtual or soft buttonsand a virtual keyboard, which may be used as an input/output device bythe user.

Other input controller(s) 944 may be coupled to other input/controldevices 948, such as one or more buttons, rocker switches, thumb-wheel,infrared port, USB port, and/or a pointer device such as a stylus. Theone or more buttons (not shown) may include an up/down button for volumecontrol of speaker 928 and/or microphone 930.

In some implementations, device 900 may present recorded audio and/orvideo files, such as MP3, AAC, and MPEG video files. In someimplementations, device 900 may include the functionality of an MP3player and may include a pin connector for tethering to other devices.Other input/output and control devices may be used.

Memory interface 902 may be coupled to memory 950. Memory 950 mayinclude high-speed random access memory or non-volatile memory, such asone or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical storagedevices, or flash memory (e.g., NAND, NOR). Memory 950 may storeoperating system 952, such as Darwin, RTXC, LINUX, UNIX, OS X, WINDOWSor an embedded operating system such as VxWorks. Operating system 952may include instructions for handling basic system services and forperforming hardware dependent tasks. In some implementations, operatingsystem 952 may include a kernel (e.g., UNIX kernel).

Memory 950 may also store communication instructions 954 to facilitatecommunicating with one or more additional devices, one or more computersor servers, including peer-to-peer communications, as described inreference to FIGS. 1-8. Communication instructions 954 may also be usedto select an operational mode or communication medium for use by thedevice, based on a geographic location (obtained by the GPS/Navigationinstructions 968) of the device. Memory 950 may include graphical userinterface instructions 956 to facilitate graphic user interfaceprocessing, including a touch model for interpreting touch inputs andgestures; sensor processing instructions 958 to facilitatesensor-related processing and functions; phone instructions 960 tofacilitate phone-related processes and functions; electronic messaginginstructions 962 to facilitate electronic-messaging related processesand functions; web browsing instructions 964 to facilitate webbrowsing-related processes and functions; media processing instructions966 to facilitate media processing-related processes and functions;GPS/Navigation instructions 968 to facilitate GPS and navigation-relatedprocesses; camera instructions 970 to facilitate camera-relatedprocesses and functions; and other instructions 972 for performing someor all of the client device or broadcast device processes, as describedin reference to FIGS. 1-8.

Each of the above identified instructions and applications maycorrespond to a set of instructions for performing one or more functionsdescribed above. These instructions need not be implemented as separatesoftware programs, procedures, or modules. Memory 950 may includeadditional instructions or fewer instructions. Furthermore, variousfunctions of the device may be implemented in hardware and/or insoftware, including in one or more signal processing and/or applicationspecific integrated circuits (ASICs).

Example Server Architecture

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of example server computer architecture 1000of a content provider for implementing the server computer features andprocesses described in reference to FIGS. 1-8. Other architectures arepossible, including architectures with more or fewer components. In someimplementations, architecture 1000 includes one or more processors 1002(e.g., dual-core Intel® Xeon® Processors), one or more output devices1004 (e.g., LCD), one or more network interfaces 1006, one or more inputdevices 1008 (e.g., mouse, keyboard, touch-sensitive display) and one ormore computer-readable mediums 1012 a (e.g., hard disk, optical disk)and 1012 b (e.g., RAM, ROM, SDRAM, flash memory). These components canexchange communications and data over one or more communication channels1010 (e.g., buses), which can utilize various hardware and software forfacilitating the transfer of data and control signals betweencomponents.

The term “computer-readable medium” refers to any medium thatparticipates in providing instructions to processor 1002 for execution,including without limitation, non-volatile media (e.g., optical ormagnetic disks), volatile media (e.g., memory) and transmission media.Transmission media includes, without limitation, coaxial cables, copperwire and fiber optics.

Computer-readable mediums 1012 a, 1012 b can further include operatingsystem 1014 (e.g., Mac OS® server, Windows® NT server), networkcommunication module 1016, real time beacon manager module 1018, beaconmanager portal module 1020 and content manager module 1022. Operatingsystem 1014 can be multi-user, multiprocessing, multitasking,multithreading, real time, etc. Operating system 1014 performs basictasks, including but not limited to: recognizing input from andproviding output to devices 1004; keeping track and managing files anddirectories on computer-readable mediums 1012 a, 1012 a; controllingperipheral devices; and managing traffic on the one or morecommunication channels 1010. Network communications module 1016 includesvarious components for establishing and maintaining network connections(e.g., software for implementing communication protocols, such asTCP/IP, HTTP, etc.). Beacon manager module 1018 performs real timebeacon commissioning and other beacon services. Beacon manager portalmodule 1020 provides a web portal to enterprises. Beacon manager portalmodule 1020 can also establish a web feed (e.g., XML feed) to beaconmanagement service 112 from enterprise computer systems. Content manager1020 module can select, aggregate and format content based on beaconinformation and a device ID, as described in reference to FIGS. 1-8.

Architecture 1000 can be included in any computer device, including oneor more server computers each having one or more processing cores.Architecture 1000 can be implemented in a parallel processing orpeer-to-peer infrastructure or on a single device with one or moreprocessors. Software can include multiple software components or can bea single body of code.

The features described may be implemented in digital electroniccircuitry or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or incombinations of them. The features may be implemented in a computerprogram product tangibly embodied in an information carrier, e.g., in amachine-readable storage device, for execution by a programmableprocessor; and method steps may be performed by a programmable processorexecuting a program of instructions to perform functions of thedescribed implementations by operating on input data and generatingoutput.

The described features may be implemented advantageously in one or morecomputer programs that are executable on a programmable system includingat least one programmable processor coupled to receive data andinstructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a datastorage system, at least one input device, and at least one outputdevice. A computer program is a set of instructions that may be used,directly or indirectly, in a computer to perform a certain activity orbring about a certain result. A computer program may be written in anyform of programming language (e.g., Objective-C, Java), includingcompiled or interpreted languages, and it may be deployed in any form,including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component,subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment.

Suitable processors for the execution of a program of instructionsinclude, by way of example, both general and special purposemicroprocessors, and the sole processor or one of multiple processors orcores, of any kind of computer. Generally, a processor will receiveinstructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memoryor both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor forexecuting instructions and one or more memories for storing instructionsand data. Generally, a computer may communicate with mass storagedevices for storing data files. These mass storage devices may includemagnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks;magneto-optical disks; and optical disks. Storage devices suitable fortangibly embodying computer program instructions and data include allforms of non-volatile memory, including by way of example semiconductormemory devices, such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices;magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks;magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor andthe memory may be supplemented by, or incorporated in, ASICs(application-specific integrated circuits).

To provide for interaction with an author, the features may beimplemented on a computer having a display device such as a CRT (cathoderay tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor for displayinginformation to the author and a keyboard and a pointing device such as amouse or a trackball by which the author may provide input to thecomputer.

The features may be implemented in a computer system that includes aback-end component, such as a data server or that includes a middlewarecomponent, such as an application server or an Internet server, or thatincludes a front-end component, such as a client computer having agraphical user interface or an Internet browser, or any combination ofthem. The components of the system may be connected by any form ormedium of digital data communication such as a communication network.Examples of communication networks include a LAN, a WAN and thecomputers and networks forming the Internet.

The computer system may include clients and servers. A client and serverare generally remote from each other and typically interact through anetwork. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue ofcomputer programs running on the respective computers and having aclient-server relationship to each other.

One or more features or steps of the disclosed embodiments may beimplemented using an Application Programming Interface (API). An API maydefine on or more parameters that are passed between a callingapplication and other software code (e.g., an operating system, libraryroutine, function) that provides a service, that provides data, or thatperforms an operation or a computation.

The API may be implemented as one or more calls in program code thatsend or receive one or more parameters through a parameter list or otherstructure based on a call convention defined in an API specificationdocument. A parameter may be a constant, a key, a data structure, anobject, an object class, a variable, a data type, a pointer, an array, alist, or another call. API calls and parameters may be implemented inany programming language. The programming language may define thevocabulary and calling convention that a programmer will employ toaccess functions supporting the API.

In some implementations, an API call may report to an application thecapabilities of a device running the application, such as inputcapability, output capability, processing capability, power capability,communications capability, etc.

As described above, some aspects of the subject matter of thisspecification include gathering and use of data available from varioussources to improve services a mobile device can provide to a user. Thepresent disclosure contemplates that in some instances, this gathereddata may identify a particular location or an address based on deviceusage. Such personal information data can include location-based data,addresses, subscriber account identifiers, or other identifyinginformation.

The present disclosure further contemplates that the entitiesresponsible for the collection, analysis, disclosure, transfer, storage,or other use of such personal information data will comply withwell-established privacy policies and/or privacy practices. Inparticular, such entities should implement and consistently use privacypolicies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting orexceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining personalinformation data private and secure. For example, personal informationfrom users should be collected for legitimate and reasonable uses of theentity and not shared or sold outside of those legitimate uses. Further,such collection should occur only after receiving the informed consentof the users. Additionally, such entities would take any needed stepsfor safeguarding and securing access to such personal information dataand ensuring that others with access to the personal information dataadhere to their privacy policies and procedures. Further, such entitiescan subject themselves to evaluation by third parties to certify theiradherence to widely accepted privacy policies and practices.

In the case of advertisement delivery services, the present disclosurealso contemplates embodiments in which users selectively block the useof, or access to, personal information data. That is, the presentdisclosure contemplates that hardware and/or software elements can beprovided to prevent or block access to such personal information data.For example, in the case of advertisement delivery services, the presenttechnology can be configured to allow users to select to “opt in” or“opt out” of participation in the collection of personal informationdata during registration for services.

Therefore, although the present disclosure broadly covers use ofpersonal information data to implement one or more various disclosedembodiments, the present disclosure also contemplates that the variousembodiments can also be implemented without the need for accessing suchpersonal information data. That is, the various embodiments of thepresent technology are not rendered inoperable due to the lack of all ora portion of such personal information data. For example, content can beselected and delivered to users by inferring preferences based onnon-personal information data or a bare minimum amount of personalinformation, such as the content being requested by the deviceassociated with a user, other non-personal information available to thecontent delivery services, or publically available information.

A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it willbe understood that various modifications may be made. Elements of one ormore implementations may be combined, deleted, modified, or supplementedto form further implementations. As yet another example, the logic flowsdepicted in the figures do not require the particular order shown, orsequential order, to achieve desirable results. In addition, other stepsmay be provided, or steps may be eliminated, from the described flows,and other components may be added to, or removed from, the describedsystems. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is: 1-20. (canceled)
 21. A method comprising: receiving,by a broadcast device operating in a beacon environment, streaming mediafrom a network-based content provider, the streaming media including acontent portion and beacon information; obtaining, by the broadcastdevice, the beacon information from in the streaming media, the beaconinformation including a beacon identifier identifying a radio frequencybeacon associated with the broadcast device, wherein the beaconidentifier, when received by the network-based content provider from anelectronic device operating in the beacon environment, is used toidentify additional content to send to the electronic device, whereinthe additional content is identified via a lookup to a beacon databaseaccessible by the networked-based content provider; broadcasting, by thedevice, the content portion of the streaming media into the beaconenvironment over a first broadcast medium; and concurrently with thebroadcasting of the content portion of the streaming media,broadcasting, by the radio frequency beacon, the beacon information intothe beacon environment over a second broadcast medium that is differentthan the first broadcast medium.
 22. The method of claim 21, whereinbroadcasting the content portion of the streaming media includes playingthe content portion of the streaming media through a loudspeaker. 23.The method of claim 21, wherein broadcasting the content portion of thestreaming media includes displaying the content portion of the streamingmedia on a computer or television screen.
 24. The method of claim 21,wherein obtaining the beacon information includes obtaining the beaconidentifier and a content identifier from a streaming media packetheader.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the beacon informationfurther includes a device identifier stored by the device, the deviceidentifier identifying a device type for the broadcast device.
 26. Themethod of claim 25, wherein the device type is a stereo system and thecontent identifier identifies a radio station provided by a radiostreaming service.
 27. The method of claim 25, wherein the device typeis a television system and the content identifier identifies atelevision station.
 28. The method of claim 25, wherein the contentidentifier is associated with a slide show being presented in the beaconenvironment.
 29. An apparatus comprising: a display device; a wirelesstransceiver; one or more processors; memory coupled to the one or moreprocessors and storing instructions, which, when executed by the one ormore processors, causes the one or more processors to: receive, via thewireless transceiver, beacon information broadcast from a radiofrequency beacon into a beacon environment over a first broadcastmedium, the beacon information obtained from streaming media that isbroadcast into the beacon environment concurrently with the beaconinformation over a second broadcast medium that is different than thefirst broadcast medium, the beacon information including at least abeacon identifier identifying the radio frequency beacon and a contentidentifier identifying the streaming media; display a notification onthe display device, wherein the notification is associated with thebeacon information; receive user input related to the notification,wherein the user input is to request delivery of content associated withthe beacon information; send, by the wireless transceiver, a request forthe content to a content provider, the request including the beaconidentifier and the content identifier; and receive, by the wirelesstransceiver, access to requested content.
 30. The apparatus of claim 29,the one or more processors additionally to invoke an applicationassociated with the beacon environment in response to the beaconinformation.
 31. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the content is alink to an application associated with the beacon environment.
 32. Theapparatus of claim 31, wherein the one or more processors areadditionally to download the application and install the application onthe apparatus.
 33. A non-transitory, computer-readable storage mediumhaving instructions stored thereon, wherein the instructions, whenexecuted by one or more processors, causes the one or more processors toperform operations comprising: receiving, by a broadcast deviceoperating in a beacon environment, streaming media from a network-basedcontent provider, the streaming media including a content portion andbeacon information; obtaining, by the broadcast device, the beaconinformation from the streaming media, the beacon information including abeacon identifier identifying a radio frequency beacon associated withthe broadcast device, wherein the beacon identifier, when received bythe network-based content provider from an electronic device operatingin the beacon environment, is used to identify additional content tosend to the electronic device, wherein the additional content isidentified via a lookup to a beacon database accessible by thenetworked-based content provider; broadcasting, by the device, thecontent portion of the streaming media into the beacon environment overa first broadcast medium; and concurrently with the broadcasting thecontent portion of the streaming media, broadcasting, by the radiofrequency beacon, the beacon information into the beacon environmentover a second broadcast medium that is different than the firstbroadcast medium.
 34. The non-transitory, computer-readable storagemedium of claim 33, wherein broadcasting the content portion of thestreaming media includes playing the content portion of the streamingmedia through a loudspeaker.
 35. The non-transitory, computer-readablestorage medium of claim 33, wherein broadcasting the content portion ofthe streaming media includes displaying the content portion of thestreaming media on a computer or television screen.
 36. Thenon-transitory, computer-readable storage medium of claim 33, whereinobtaining the beacon information includes obtaining the beaconidentifier and content identifier from a streaming media packet header.37. The non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium of claim 36,wherein the beacon information further includes a device identifierstored by the device, the device identifier identifying a device typefor the broadcast device.
 38. The non-transitory, computer-readablestorage medium of claim 37, wherein the device type is a stereo systemand the content identifier identifies a radio station provided by aradio streaming service.
 39. The non-transitory, computer-readablestorage medium of claim 37, wherein the device type is a televisionsystem and the content identifier identifies a television station. 40.The non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium of claim 37,wherein the content identifier is associated with a slide show beingpresented in the beacon environment.